McConnell Sworn In as New Red Bank Chief

Darren MCConnell, with hand raised, is sworn in as the new police chief in Red Bank. Those taking part in the ceremony include Mayor Pasquale Menna, left, Councilman and Police Commissioner Arthur Murphy, third from left, and McConnell’s family members.

McConnell was sworn in as the borough’s top cop before a full house audience of department members, representatives of other departments and law enforcement organizations from around Monmouth County, McConnell’s family members and well wishers at the borough’s Municipal Complex.

McConnell, a father of four who lives in the borough, joined the department in 1988. He has held numerous positions in the department during his 25-year career, including working in the detective bureau, heading up the traffic safety department and serving as the department’s public information officer, which required him to work as liaison between the department and the media. He has taken additional training with the FBI in Quantico, Va.

McConnell has been overseeing the department since the summer when the Chief, Stephen G. McCarthy, underwent medical treatment. McCarthy died on Sept. 23.

Mayor Pasquale Menna said McConnell “continues a tradition of decency and professionalism,” that has been a hallmark of the department. “It’s a logical choice,” Menna said of the appointment.

McConnell will receive the same salary as McCarthy, earning $133,414 annually.